The Cincinnati Bengals are undergoing a shift in their backfield. The latest move in this transformation follows a series of workouts on Monday, leading to the signing of former New York Giants star to the practice squad, as reported by NFL Media. This comes after the team also brought in veteran running back Leonard Fournette as part of those workouts.
These changes come in the wake of the Bengals placing running back Zack Moss on injured reserve due to a neck injury, which is expected to sideline him for the remainder of the season. The team had already begun addressing their backfield needs at the trade deadline by acquiring former Chicago Bears running back Khalil Herbert. Now, with Brightwell added to the mix, the Bengals have another option to complement starter Chase Brown.
Gary Brightwell, 25, was selected by the New York Giants in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft out of Arizona. Over his first three seasons with the Giants, he mainly played a reserve role and contributed on special teams. During that time, he recorded 41 carries for 164 yards and a touchdown, along with 11 receptions on 16 targets for 92 yards.
Brightwell’s 2023 season was interrupted by a hamstring injury in Week 7, which landed him on injured reserve. He was waived by the Giants in May with an injury designation. More recently, Brightwell spent time with the Jacksonville Jaguars during training camp before signing with the Cleveland Browns in late August. He was primarily part of their practice squad until his release on October 29.
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